Behind Enemy Lines: Sheffield United

MILLWALL take on a fellow newly promoted side this weekend when Chris Wilder's Sheffield United make the long trip down to The Den.

The two sides have had rather different starts to the season, with the Blades almost carrying straight on from last season, while Millwall are five points above the relegation zone.

With his side currently in the top six, Wilder will be hoping for a third consecutive promotion (Northampton: League Two 2015/16: Sheffield United- League One 2016/17), although both he and the Brammall Lane faithful know that this start has come as somewhat of a surprise.

This week, Lucas Ball spoke to RealSport writer and GHSports founder George Howson ahead of the game.

Twitter: @GeorgeyHowson95

Why do you support Sheffield United?

My parents and a lot of my family support United and I've carried on the tradition. I lived my entire life in The Steel City before moving away for university and I'll still go to see Sheffield's Red and White in the heart of the city whenever I can.

What’s your best season supporting the Blades?

Probably last season, it beats the promotion campaign under Neil Warnock because the football was far more entertaining. The Blades were outstanding after switching to three at the back and showed a togetherness and team spirit that I've rarely seen in any side.

Do you think that your excellent form can be continued throughout the season?

Potentially, yes, although I don't expect it. I thought we'd do well this season and finish in mid-table but Wilder's side have surprised even the most optimistic Unitedites.

If we can strengthen in January and avoid any more injuries (we've had loads so far!) I don't see any reason why we can't finish in at least a play-off position.

How tough will it be to keep hold of Chris Wilder?

Not very, I hope. Wilder's a lifelong Blade, being born in Sheffield, being a ball-boy, player and now manager. I don't think a struggling Premier League side will be able to coax him away from Bramall Lane, not while we we're playing as well as we are.

Who are the Blades’ danger men?

The whole outfield team. We play as a unit, a squad, not a team of individuals, any of the players can pop up with goals or assists. If I had to pick a few, though, Leon Clarke has been in incredible form of late, while Billy Sharp is always a threat.

Which of Neil Harris’ side are you most worried about?

Anyone with pace really! Fred Onyedinma, if he plays, could be dangerous. Or even from the bench, I'm sure he could have an impact.

Mahlon Romeo's probable return to the team, along with Jed Wallace coming back from suspension, could cause us problems. Shaun Hutchinson looks like a rock at the back and he will be hard to beat.

What’s your predicted United line-up and formation?

3-5-2

Blackman

O'Connell Wright Carter-Vickers

Stevens Fleck Lundstram Duffy Basham

Sharp (C), Clarke

Finally, a score prediction?

Millwall 0-1 Sheffield United. The Lions have started the season well and do have a chance of getting a result, especially at The Den, but I think we should be able to end our mini-blip on Saturday. Clarke's been in superb form and Wilder will be drilling the players defensively after shipping six in our last two games so I think we'll get a solid, if unspectacular away win.